The Most Popular Animal in Japan, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the animal you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 18, 2024 06:47
In a vibrant land where the appreciation of nature melds seamlessly with daily life, knowing which animal captures the heart of the nation can be both enlightening and entertaining. From the serene countryside to bustling urban settings, animals play a crucial role in cultural symbolism and personal inspiration. This curiosity drives a compelling motive to see which creature stands atop the list in public favor.
This interactive process allows you to partake in shaping the outcome, giving a unique perspective on widely shared preferences. The fluctuating scores provide a dynamic snapshot of what animals are resonating the most with people at any given time. By casting your vote, you help paint a clearer picture of cultural affections and trends.
What Is the Most Popular Animal in Japan?
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139votes
Roberto Vasarri · Public domainShiba Inu
JapanThe Shiba Inu is a popular breed of dog in Japan, known for its loyalty, intelligence, and playful nature. It has become especially popular in recent years due to internet memes and viral videos.The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized dog breed that originated in Japan. It is known for its spirited and independent nature, making it one of the most difficult breeds to train. Despite its challenges, the Shiba Inu has gained popularity for its unique appearance and loyal personality.- Size: Small to medium-sized
- Temperament: Spirited, independent
- Trainability: Difficult
- Popularity: High
- Appearance: Unique
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229votes
KENPEI · CC BY-SA 3.0Also known as the snow monkey, the Japanese macaque is a highly intelligent and social primate that is native to Japan. It is often depicted in Japanese art and culture, and is a popular tourist attraction at hot springs in the winter months.The Japanese Macaque, or commonly known as the Snow Monkey, is a species of monkey native to Japan. They are known for their unique adaptation to the cold weather as they inhabit regions with temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F). The Japanese Macaque holds a significant cultural and symbolic importance in Japanese society and is considered a national treasure.- Distribution: Japan
- Scientific Name: Macaca fuscata
- Average Lifespan: Approximately 30 years
- Size: 50 to 60 cm (19.7 to 23.6 in)
- Weight: Approximately 10 to 14 kg (22 to 31 lb)
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337votes
David Adam Kess · CC BY-SA 4.0Koi fish are a type of ornamental carp that are highly prized in Japanese culture for their beauty and symbolism. They are often kept in garden ponds and are seen as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.The Koi Fish is a type of ornamental carp that is renowned for its vibrant colors and stunning patterns. Originally bred in Japan, it has become a popular addition to aquariums worldwide.- Size: Can grow up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) in length
- Colors: Showcases a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, orange, black, and white
- Patterns: Features intricate patterns such as scales, patches, and spots
- Lifespan: Can live up to 30 years or more
- Habitat: Thrives in freshwater environments, particularly ponds or large aquariums
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412votes
J. Patrick Fischer · CC BY-SA 3.0While not native to Japan, the giant panda is a beloved animal in Japan and is often featured in Japanese media and merchandise. The country has also loaned several pandas to zoos around the world, including the famous Ueno Zoo in Tokyo.The Giant Panda, also known as Panda bear, is a popular animal species in Japan. It is a black and white bear native to central China. Known for its unique appearance and playful nature, the Giant Panda is loved by people all around the world.- Scientific Name: Ailuropoda melanoleuca
- Average Lifespan: 20 years in the wild, up to 30 years in captivity
- Size and Weight: Adults measure around 4 to 6 feet in length and weigh between 220 and 330 pounds
- Diet: Almost exclusively bamboo, consuming around 20 to 40 pounds daily
- Habitat: Mountainous regions of southwestern China, mainly within bamboo forests
Giant Panda in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular endangered animal
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular endangered species
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514votes
ようてい · CC BY-SA 3.0The Japanese Bobtail is a breed of cat that is native to Japan, known for its distinctive bobbed tail and playful personality. They have been kept as pets in Japan for centuries and are often featured in Japanese art and culture.The Japanese Bobtail is a breed of domestic cat known for its short, bobbed tail. It has a unique and elegant appearance, with a slender body, long legs, and a small head. The eyes are large and expressive, and the ears are upright and slightly angled. This breed comes in a variety of colors and patterns, including calico, tortoiseshell, and solid colors.- Tail: Bobbed tail, usually 3 inches in length
- Coat: Short-medium length, silky texture
- Size: Medium-sized breed
- Weight: 6-10 pounds (2.7-4.5 kg)
- Body: Slender and muscular
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620votesThe red-crowned crane is a large and beautiful bird that is native to Japan and is considered a symbol of longevity, luck, and fidelity. They are often depicted in Japanese art and are a popular tourist attraction at the Kushiro Marshland in Hokkaido.The Red-crowned Crane, also known as the Japanese Crane, is a large and majestic bird native to Japan. It is one of the most iconic and popular animals in the country. The creator of the Red-crowned Crane is Mother Nature herself.
- Scientific Name: Grus japonensis
- Size: Height: up to 5 feet (1.5 meters), Wingspan: up to 8 feet (2.4 meters)
- Color: White plumage with a red crown on the head and black secondary feathers
- Diet: Omnivorous - feeds on plants, small animals, and insects
- Habitat: Wetlands, marshes, and meadows in Hokkaido, Honshu, and Kyushu
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76votes
Royal Navy · Public domainSea otters are a highly social and playful marine mammal that is native to Japan. They are often seen floating on their backs in the water, holding hands with each other to stay together.The sea otter is a marine mammal that belongs to the weasel family. It is known for its adorable appearance, with a stocky body, dense fur, and a cute face. Sea otters are native to the northern Pacific Ocean, including the coastal areas of Japan.- Scientific Name: Enhydra lutris
- Average Length: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters)
- Average Weight: 31 to 99 pounds (14 to 45 kilograms)
- Distinctive Feature: Thick, waterproof fur
- Diet: Mainly sea urchins, clams, crabs, and other invertebrates
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86votesThe Japanese firefly is a species of firefly that is native to Japan and is known for its beautiful bioluminescence. They are a popular attraction during the summer months when they gather in large numbers near rivers and streams.The Japanese Firefly, also known as Luciola cruciata, is a species of firefly native to Japan. It is one of the most popular insects in the country due to its enchanting light display. The fireflies are commonly found in wooded areas, near rivers, and in parks during the summer months. Their bioluminescence not only serves as a means of communication and courtship, but also adds beauty to the summer nights in Japan.
- Scientific Name: Luciola cruciata
- Native to: Japan
- Habitat: Wooded areas, near rivers, and parks
- Commonly seen: During summer months
- Bioluminescence: Used for communication and courtship
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98votesThe tanuki is a type of raccoon dog that is native to Japan and is known for its mischievous and playful nature. They are often depicted in Japanese folklore and are a popular subject in Japanese art and culture.The Tanuki is a popular animal in Japan, also known as the Japanese raccoon dog. It is a small to medium-sized mammal native to East Asia. With its distinct features and folklore significance, the Tanuki holds a special place in Japanese culture.
- Scientific Name: Nyctereutes procyonoides
- Size: Approximately 55-70 cm in length, with a tail length of 13-18 cm
- Weight: Ranges from 4-10 kg
- Appearance: Tanuki have short legs, a pointed snout, and rounded ears. They have a thick, bushy tail and their fur is typically brown or grayish-brown with a coarse texture.
- Habitat: Tanuki are found in various habitats including forests, mountains, and rural areas throughout Japan.
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1010votesWhile not native to Japan, the snow leopard is a popular animal in Japanese culture and is often featured in Japanese media and merchandise. They are also a symbol of strength and resilience in Japanese culture.The Snow Leopard is a majestic wild cat known for its striking appearance and elusive behavior. It is native to the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia.
- Scientific Name: Panthera uncia
- Size: Length: 3 to 4.5 feet, Height: 2 feet at shoulders
- Weight: 60 to 120 pounds
- Coat: Thick, pale gray color with black rosettes and spots
- Habitat: High-altitude alpine and subalpine regions
Snow Leopard in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful animal on Earth
- Position 3 of 10 in Most beautiful species of big cat
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular animal in Afghanistan
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular big cat
- Position 8 of 10 in Most amazing animal
- Position 10 of 10 in Most beautiful creature created by God
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Ranking factors for popular animal
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Cultural significanceConsider the role an animal plays in Japanese culture, folklore, and tradition. This may include traditional stories, beliefs, and festivals centered around the animal.
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Popularity as a petLook at the number of people in Japan who own the animal as a pet. Common pets in Japan include dogs, cats, and various small mammals and fish.
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Popularity in media and entertainmentTake into account the popularity of the animal in Japanese media, such as anime, manga, video games, and movies. Characters inspired by a particular animal can increase its popularity.
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National symbols and mascotsCheck if the animal is a national symbol or widely used as a mascot for events, companies, or cities in Japan. This can indicate a strong connection between the animal and the Japanese people.
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Endemic speciesAnimals that are native to Japan or can only be found in Japan might have a special appeal and significance for the country's population.
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Conservation statusAnimals that are endangered or under threat of extinction might become popular due to conservation awareness campaigns that bring attention to their plight.
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Popularity in zoos and aquariumsCheck how common the animal is in Japanese zoos and aquariums - this can give an indication of its popularity among visitors and Japanese citizens.
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SymbolismSome animals carry symbolic meanings in Japanese culture, such as the crane representing longevity and good fortune. An animal's symbolic significance can increase its popularity.
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Historical importanceConsider the historical relationship between the animal and Japan, such as its role in the country's history, economy, or trade.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular animal in Japan. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or animal is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2620 views
- 167 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each animal once every 24 hours. The rank of each animal is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular animal in japan
In Japan, animals play an important role in the country's culture and traditions. From the iconic red-crowned crane to the adorable Shiba Inu, Japan is home to a diverse range of animals that have captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
One of the most popular animals in Japan is undoubtedly the cat. Known as "neko" in Japanese, these furry felines have become ubiquitous in the country's pop culture, with cat cafes, cat-themed merchandise, and even cat islands drawing in visitors from all over the world.
Another beloved animal in Japan is the tanuki, a type of raccoon dog. Tanuki are often depicted in Japanese folklore as mischievous tricksters, and their iconic image can be seen in many traditional Japanese art forms, including pottery and wood carvings.
Overall, Japan's love for animals runs deep and is reflected in the country's art, literature, and daily life. So, it's no surprise that choosing the most popular animal in Japan is a difficult task, as there are simply too many to choose from!
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